GENERAL SAFETY
LIGHTNING & THUNDERSTORMS
Here in the mountains, the weather is notorious for changing quickly. In the summer, that means you should be on the lookout for afternoon thunderstorms. If you notice one approaching, seek shelter when possible. Of course, if you’re in one of our backcountry areas, finding shelter may not be so easy, which is why you should always be prepared. Hike or bike with a rain jacket and other appropriate gear, know your surroundings and be sure to avoid ridgetops, lift houses, lift towers, power lines, open ski runs, fences, signposts and the tallest tree or object in your vicinity.
FIRE DANGER
Don’t assume there is no danger of fire because you’re not out West. Fire dangers exist even here in the Appalachians. Read and obey all posted warning signs.
CONSTRUCTION WARNING
The majority of our facility repairs and mountain improvement projects take place during the summer months, so guests should always be observant of construction hazards. Vehicles may be encountered at any time and terrain could be temporarily closed for maintenance at times.
ADEQUATE CLOTHING
Again, the weather changes quickly here. The most important thing you can do is be prepared. Wear rugged footwear for hiking and biking, dress in layers, and pack sunscreen and rain gear on your outdoor adventures when possible.
ENVIRONMENT
In our industry, we must always strive tobe stewards of the environment, to interact with our local flora and fauna respectfully and safely. The best way to accomplish this is to stay on designated hiking and biking trails. If you do encounter a wild animal, remain calm and back away slowly to ensure it doesn’t feel threatened. Never approach or feed wildlife. Leave wildflowers and plants in their native spaces (don’t bring any in, don’t take any out).
WATER
It is imperative that you stay hydrated during your summer adventures. Drinking water is available at numerous Village facilities and at the Boathouse, but not in the backcountry areas. Do not drink from streams or other natural waterways. Always take sufficient drinking water along when hiking and biking. IN CASE OF ACCIDENT The sooner you can report an accident and/or seek assistance, the better. Report accidents at any of our designated on-mountain emergency phones, inform a Snowshoe staff member, or dial 911 from the nearest phone. Cell phone coverage is extremely limited on the Mountain, so prepare for activities accordingly. rich-text
BACKCOUNTRY TRAIL SYSTEM
Backcountry trails are designated for mixed use by hikers, cross-country mountain bikers, and other users and activities. Please be courteous to other trail users, yield when appropriate, and pass with care. Because our backcountry trails lead into remote areas with no services and little cell phone coverage, we recommend you ride or hike with a partner and let a responsible party know where you’re headed and when you plan to return. You may encounter authorized and unauthorized vehicles, trail work crews, and construction areas. Always stay alert and use caution! Backcountry trails may be temporarily closed due to maintenance, weather, special events, construction, or trail conditions. Please check the report and obtain additional information at the Mountain Adventure Center or the Depot.
The backcountry trail system is not regularly patrolled and trails are not regularly cleared. Notify the Mountain Adventure Center if you see an obstacle or hazard on the trails. Please stay on designated trails.
Unauthorized motor vehicle use is strictly prohibited on the Snowshoe Mountain trail system. rich-text
cross country MOUNTAIN BIKING
Mountain Biking is different than road or street riding and is confined to marked unimproved or partially improved trails where rocks, dirt, loose gravel, stumps and even vehicles may be encountered at any time. Changing weather conditions, variations in terrain, including steepness, natural and man-made obstacles and features, and other dangers or conditions, are inherent risks that are part of the challenge of mountain biking. You must ride in control and within your own ability. You are using these premises at your own risk, and assume all risks in this activity. Helmets must be worn and other appropriate protective gear is highly recommended. You can minimize risk drastically by reading and obeying all signs.
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